Movie review: “Gloria” a different kind of coming-of-age story

The Chilean import “Gloria” was the country’s official nominee for the Best Foreign Language Oscar, and though it didn’t get a nod from the Academy, it’s easy to see why it was chosen.

It’s a warm, earnest and lively movie, anchored by a superb lead performance. And it’s the sort of story we don’t get to see often enough.

Gloria Cumplido (Paulina Garcia) is a 50-something divorcée living alone in Santiago. She’s a little lonely, but upbeat and still having fun in the form of a dance club for older singles. When she meets a charming older man, she begins to imagine what a serious relationship would look like at her age.

“Gloria” isn’t full of plot fireworks, but it feels like life. It’s relatable — and I’m sure the story of a 50-something woman will resonate even more with that audience.

Garcia is the anchor of the film, delivering a warm and endearing performance. She keeps Gloria sympathetic without ever making us feel sorry for her.

A story of a woman rediscovering herself in a different age, “Gloria” is a treat.